Hearty Wyoming Bison Chili: A Robust and Flavorful Meal
This Hearty Wyoming Bison Chili is a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for a cold day. Packed with protein-rich bison meat, beans, and a variety of spices, this chili is sure to warm you up and tantalize your taste buds. Bison is leaner than beef, making this chili a healthier alternative without sacrificing any flavor. Serve with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
***Ingredients:***
– 1 lb ground bison meat
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for garnish
***Instructions:***
1. **Heat** a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil.
2. **Add** the ground bison meat to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove the cooked bison and set it aside.
3. **In** the same pot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Return** the bison meat to the pot. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices bloom.
5. **Add** the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir until well combined.
6. **Bring** the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, uncovered, for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken.
7. **Add** the kidney beans in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Ensure they are heated through.
8. **Taste** and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. **Serve** the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro.
Enjoy your Hearty Wyoming Bison Chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a complete, satisfying meal.